I started with Watani as a fresh graduate in the 1990s, translating pieces from English to Arabic for the international page of the paper. Later, I began translating articles from the Arabic paper into English in preparation for the new English pages that were soon to be released. For personal reasons, I had to stop altogether
I started with Watani as a fresh graduate in the 1990s, translating pieces from English to Arabic for the international page of the paper. Later, I began translating articles from the Arabic paper into English in preparation for the new English pages that were soon to be released. For personal reasons, I had to stop altogether. Days and months passed but I always had a strange sense of attachment to Watani, I still felt I was already a member of its circle. Finally the time came when I could join Watani International and it was the beginning of a whole new phase in my life, a culmination of a dream that had remained unfulfilled for years.
Being part of Watani International felt like going back to school in a way and spending a pleasant day with the family on another. Every single incident or discussion was a revelation and an education in all fields of knowledge; everyone talked and listened–all the members of the team respected and accepted one anothers## differences. I learnt to grasp matters in depth and awareness. On the other hand, it was simply glorious to spend time bantering and joking while getting the work done, enjoying the warm ##family circle##, sharing each other’s happy and sad moments, trying to resolve dilemmas and offer or ask for advice whenever needed advice. And of course as with all Egyptians, a memorable moment cannot be complete without food, so of course the nice cosy (sometimes crowded) office witnessed many simple meals while listening to Ms Samia share in the tantrum with her great treasury of Watani’s stories and laughs.
Even today, when I no longer work inhouse at Watani but contribute to Watani online, I still feel part of this great warm circle of Watani members, it is like having a great big magnet pulling you to the source of light and knowledge, where – for many – working for Watani International is not a job but a labour of love…
Watani Internation: Happy ten years of giving and growing. May you always stand out as the beacon of light.
